From personal trials to professional triumphs, Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris—widely known as The Preschool Icon®—has transformed the childcare industry by building a family-run empire rooted in purpose, resilience, and community love. Through her Global Preschool Consulting Company and the pioneering GPS blueprint, Dr. Booker-Harris is equipping childcare providers across the country with the tools to build profitable and purpose-driven businesses.
Her success was not handed to her. “I faced homelessness, bankruptcy, and legal battles—but I never lost sight of my mission,” Dr. Booker-Harris shares, speaking candidly of the challenges that shaped her. “I want others to know they can rise too.” That passion now fuels her drive to guide new and aspiring owners past the confusion and toward success, particularly in a heavily regulated industry where many give up before they begin.
When asked how her community shaped her commitment to service, Dr. Booker-Harris recalls her Memphis upbringing. “My grandmother was the heart of our neighborhood—always giving, always nurturing. That spirit is in everything I do.” Her outreach efforts reflect this legacy: feeding over 400 families, providing school supplies to more than 500 children, and offering utility support and camping experiences through her philanthropic arm, Global Children Services.
Dr. Booker-Harris’s work is more than business—it’s a calling. “What I hope my story inspires,” she says, “is that anyone, no matter their past, can become the leader their community needs.” Whether she’s running her award-winning preschool, mentoring through consulting, or organizing massive community events like her Trunk-or-Treat that draws nearly 1,400 families, she does it with heart, intention, and strategy.
A true visionary, Dr. Booker-Harris continues to change lives by helping others turn their passion for childcare into purposeful, thriving empires.
About Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris
Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris, known as The Preschool Icon®, is a trailblazing childcare consultant, entrepreneur, and founder of Global Preschool Consulting Company. With nearly 20 years of experience, she has built a multi-million-dollar family business and guides others to do the same through her GPS blueprint. A committed humanitarian, she leads Global Children Services, providing food, school supplies, and support to families across Memphis. Her work has earned her multiple awards and the trust of thousands seeking childcare excellence. Through mentorship, philanthropy, and strategy, Dr. Booker-Harris continues to uplift communities and transform the childcare landscape nationwide.
